Crete’s electricity interconnection with mainland Greece is increasingly reducing the island’s reliance on oil-fired generation, according to data from distribution system operator DEDDIE. The link has been moving toward full operational use, with the transmission connection reaching capacity at the end of December. This development is tied to changes in how electricity is supplied to the island.
DEDDIE data show that oil-fired electricity production on Crete fell by 91 percent in the first three months of the year. Between January and March, local thermal plants generated 26,500 MWh, compared with approximately 305,000 MWh in the same period last year. The figures indicate a sharp shift in generation patterns during the period.
The steepest reductions occurred at the start of the year. Oil-fired output dropped to 630 MWh in January and 211 MWh in February, after monthly generation had been above 100,000 MWh during those months a year earlier. In March, production rose temporarily to around 26,700 MWh following a planned 10-day maintenance shutdown of the interconnection system ahead of the summer season.
After maintenance was completed, electricity imported from the mainland resumed covering nearly all of Crete’s demand. With the transmission connection operating at full capacity from late December, 2026 is expected to be the first full year when Crete depends almost entirely on grid-supplied electricity. The change affects both generation volumes and how supply is balanced on the island.
Annual oil-fired electricity production from Crete’s stations is projected to decline to approximately 100,000 MWh. Over the previous three years, average annual generation from these facilities was roughly 1.55 million MWh, implying an estimated 94 percent reduction in oil-based output. The forecast reflects continued reliance on imported power once full-year operations begin.
The shift is also expected to lower public service obligation costs associated with maintaining oil-fired capacity on Crete. Expenses are forecast at around 100 million euros this year, compared with an annual average of approximately 550 million euros over the past three years. That implies projected yearly savings of nearly 450 million euros.
Total construction costs for the interconnection project are reported at 1.15 billion euros. The investment is expected to recover its value in less than three years through lower operating expenses and reduced system support costs. The figures presented connect cost recovery to changes in generation and related support requirements.
